Financial Analyst

Join AIR as a Financial Analyst and play a key role in supporting our government contracting work. In this pivotal position, you will deliver in-depth financial analysis, reporting, and strategic insights that strengthen contract performance and drive organizational success. You'll partner closely with teams across the organization to ensure financial accuracy, uphold regulatory compliance, and achieve critical financial objectives.

The ideal candidate brings strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of government contracting, and the ability to translate complex financial information into clear, actionable guidance. If you're looking to expand your impact within a mission-driven organization, we'd love to have you bring your expertise to AIR.

This role reports to the Senior Financial Analyst.

Candidates hired for the position may work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of our U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories.

Established in 1946, with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to solve some of the most urgent challenges in the U.S. and around the world. We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

• Conduct comprehensive financial analysis to support government contracts, including budget preparation, forecasting, variance analysis, and financial modeling.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to develop and implement strategic financial plans aligned with organizational goals.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to support decision‑making and long‑term growth.
• Monitor and manage contract costs to ensure adherence to budgetary guidelines and contractual requirements.
• Conduct cost‑benefit analyses and identify areas for cost optimization and efficiency improvements.
• Ensure compliance with government regulations, accounting standards, and internal policies by staying current on regulatory updates and implementing necessary changes.
• Assist with internal and external audits by providing accurate documentation, addressing findings promptly, and implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Support in contract negotiations and review financial terms and conditions to ensure favorable outcomes for the organization.
• Evaluate potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to protect financial interests.
• Work closely with project managers, contract administrators, and other collaborators to provide financial expertise and guidance throughout the contract lifecycle.
• Foster strong relationships and enhance collaboration and engagement to achieve shared objectives.
• Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time based on business needs.

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in financial analysis, ideally within government contracting.
• Strong knowledge of government contracting principles, regulations (e.g., FAR, DFARS), and cost accounting standards.
• Experience with financial management systems such as Deltek and/or Microsoft Dynamics 365.
• Advanced credentials like an MBA or CPA are preferred, but not required.
• This position may require occasional travel for meetings, training sessions, and conferences.

• Effective communicator with the ability to engage across all organizational levels and diverse backgrounds, particularly in virtual settings, and present financial information clearly to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Skilled at juggling multiple priorities and adapting to team dynamics while meeting deadlines independently and collaboratively.
• Exceptional analytical and strategic problem‑solving abilities, with a proven ability to analyze complex financial data and deliver data‑driven insights that support informed decision‑making.
• Strong proficiency in financial principles, budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling, with expertise in financial analysis tools and techniques.
• Meticulous attention to…